Russell Composto

Russell Composto is a Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Engineering and Applied Science. He currently serves as Penn’s inaugural Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, having joined the faculty in 1990. His leadership roles include Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education (2015-2023) and Bozza Family Faculty Co-Director of Penn First Plus (2023-2025).

• Education
  • PhD and MS in Materials Science, Cornell University
  • BA in Chemistry, Gettysburg College

Research Interests focus on polymer physics and interdisciplinary materials science, with a strong emphasis on advancing STEM education. He has spearheaded curriculum reforms, individualized student advising, and initiatives to enhance classroom engagement in introductory STEM courses.

Scientific Awards and Honors include:

• National Science Foundation Special Creativity Award
• NSF Presidential Young Investigator Award
• Geoffrey Marshall Mentoring Award
• Ford Motor Company Award for Faculty Advising
• Penn Provost’s Award for Distinguished PhD Teaching and Mentoring
• Former Chair, Division of Polymer Physics, American Physical Society

Composto has secured multi-year grants from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute for innovative STEM instruction and from the National Science Foundation to develop interdisciplinary graduate training models. He chaired Penn’s 2024 reaccreditation working group on research and leads broader efforts in academic governance and student support programs.